Thanks to the Coastal Bend Chapter of Credit Unions, nearly 200 students of Collegiate High School got a financial reality check. On Jan. 9, at a CU-4Reality Financial Education Fair, students were assigned a career, given a monthly income and credit score and then let loose to make realistic financial choices. Aside from food, shelter and transportation needs, they faced unexpected life events like identity theft and car repairs.

According to David Villarreal, chapter secretary, students were required to complete the day with a balanced budget, a challenge most adults can relate to. They were also given tips on building credit and avoiding debt.

“For some students, the event was an eye opener,” Villarreal noted. “For others, it was a confirmation of what they already suspected.”

One student, Villarreal said, remarked, “I don’t want a credit card. I see how much my mom spends on hers.”

The CU-4Reality Financial Education Fair was developed the Financial Literacy Education Committee of America’s Credit Union Museum in conjunction with the New Hampshire Credit Union League. Mike Delker, senior vice president with the Cornerstone Credit Union League, says the financial education fairs are being made available to Cornerstone REAL Solutions credit unions at no charge because of support received from Cornerstone, Cornerstone Credit Union Foundation, the Friends of Consumer Freedom and the National Credit Union Foundation.